May 14, 2015 -- Local school students were the benefactors of more than 260 volunteer hours from Marines through the Mentors in Action initiative. To celebrate, students and Marines gathered May 14 at the Town and Country Restaurant’s Grand Ballroom here on base for the annual M.I.A. luncheon.
Through the program, International Studies Elementary Charter School, Radium Springs Elementary School and Southside Middle School students received mentorship during the school year from Marines. The schools are located in Albany, Georgia.
The initiative offers a forum for mentors to serve as a positive example of leadership, professionalism and dedication. The goal is to enhance the growth of students, provide a positive environment and encourage students to strive for excellence, according to the program overview.
“I see Marines building relationships with these students that they will carry for the rest of their lives through this program,” R.D. Harter, public information director, Dougherty County School System, said. “This is a fabulous program.”
Lt. Col. Nathaniel K. Robinson, executive officer, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, also praised the initiative.
“I understand our Marines are making a difference in these children’s lives through M.I.A. and we will continue to be a positive example for them,” he said.
The program ended with Staff Sgt. Michael Mingo, supply chief, Marine Corps Logistics Command, being announced as the M.I.A. mentor of the year. After receiving his award, Mingo quickly dismissed his accomplishment.
“This award is not what is important,” he said. “The important part of this is the children we mentor because that mentorship is an investment into our future.”
To volunteer or for more information about the M.I.A. program, call Latreesa Perryman, school liaison officer, at 639-7497 or Master Sgt. William Tolleson, LOGCOM, at 639-8871.